The former Liverpool man has been in appalling form for the Blues of late, and was also not part of the group who faced Panama in November.

The successful trainer has also left out Swansea forward Michu, who was expected to make the team following his impressive performances in the Premier League, while Bayern Munich's Javi Martinez did not make the cut either.

Real Madrid goalkeeper Iker Casillas misses out due to injury, with Liverpool's Pepe Reina taking his place in the squad.

Chelsea wing-back Cesar Azpilicueta and Malaga sensation Isco are both in line to make their Spain debut after receiving an call-up for next week's encounter.

Gerard Pique, Carles Puyol, Xavi and Xabi Alonso all return to the fold after missing the European champions' previous game due to injury.